I was just checking out the 68 GTE on Bring A Trailer and was curious if the general opinion of this forum was that the 427 from early builds made this Cougar more collectible (valuable) than the same car with a 428 you would find later in the year - all other things being equal? I’m sure there will be some people with great reasons that either engine is a better option for numerous specific goals (performance, drivability, reliability, ease of maintenance, etc.), but I’m more interested strictly in the value of the car.
I would think so, but mostly because the 427 was only offered in the Cougar for a short time in that 1 year only and I’m pretty sure it did not get offered on the Mustangs. Last I saw this one was up to $115k & likely to go higher…
Obviously, I am biased, but I think all things being equal the 427 is the more valuable choice. I certainly wouldn’t turn my nose up at a 428 but given the option I’d take a 427 every time. I’m sure it won’t take long for someone to disagree.
I agree, as the 427 FE in the lightweight Thunderbolts and in various NASCAR teams makes that a highly sought-after (race) motor. Only offering it for 1 (partial) year in a Cougar also helps…
Playing devil’s advocate, the 428CJ would be less common in the 1968 Cougar - although it was offered in later years.
It is a bit of a win/win situation, as either is a six-figure car
As one of the few people who bought a new XR-7 GT-E with the 428 Cobra Jet engine my vote is of course for the 428 over the 427. Also, there were only 37 GT-Es built with the 428 CJ and almost ten times that number of 427 GT-Es. All GT-Es are very rare and prices will only go higher. I believe the record price for a GT-E at auction is a 428 CJ with the super rare (only 3) 4 speed option at over $200,000 several years ago.